Not a "Perfect Victim": When You Don't Fit the Narrative

Not every survivor looks the way society expects them to.In this episode of Sitting in the Dark, Maci explores the harmful myth of the "perfect victim" and how survivor stereotypes impact disclosure, reporting, healing, and public perception.Why didn't they report? Why did they stay? Why can't they remember? Why do they seem okay?These are questions survivors hear every day—but they're often rooted in misunderstanding rather than trauma-informed knowledge.Join us as we discuss how trauma actually affects people, why there is no "right" way to respond to victimization, and how the expectation of a perfect victim can silence survivors while protecting those who cause harm.Whether you're a survivor, support person, professional, or community member, this conversation challenges us to replace judgment with curiosity, compassion, and understanding.Because survivors don't have to fit the narrative to deserve support, dignity, and belief.Content Warning: This episode discusses sexual violence, trauma, victim-blaming, and survivor experiences.